Those who lose a minimum of 2kg of weight will win 2g of gold, while the top three losers will each receive a gold coin worth AED20,000 ($5,445).

No limit has been set on how much gold will be given away.

DMCC executive chairman Ahmed bin Sulayem said he was willing to donate to the gold haul after struggling with his own weight loss in the past because of an injury.

“We hope DMCC’s contribution of AED100,000 worth of gold coins will help motivate individuals to reach the final target of improving and sustaining a healthy lifestyle and consequently a better quality of life,” he said.

One-third of the UAE population is clinically obese, according to a recent United Nations report.

Participants in the gold competition must register with an Emirates ID card and be weighed in one of the registration desks at Gate 3 of Zabeel Park, the main gate of Khawaneej jogging track, the start of Mamzar Beach jogging track, Gate 4 of Safa Park, or the main gate of Al Barsha Pond Park, between 8pm and midnight from Friday.

Competitors must have excess weight to lose and commit to using only healthy weight-loss methods. Medical and nutritional experts will be available to give advice.

The final weigh-in will be on August 16.

A minimum of 2kg must be lost to be eligible for the gold prizes.

Dubai Municipality director-general Hussain Nasser Lootah said there were 91 public places to exercise, including parks, squares, jogging tracks and beaches, and more were being opened each year.